So, here's where it began for one of the world's coolest metal bands, the impervious Savatage, and while it may not be considered their best work, Sirens shows the band at a level of high aggression they wouldn't reclaim until the legendary Hall Of The Mountain King. Despite the climate of the metal scene at the time, their debut doesn't really sound like anything that was knocking around, and it still has an original, timeless quality. Even though Jon Oliva wouldn't introduce Broadway elements into his music until the epic Gutter Ballet, you can still hear some theatricality here, especially during the bitching title track, which opens the album with one of Criss Oliva's best and most venomous riffs. Hell, there's no disputing this is the best song on here (with the exception of the mighty, Judas Priest-riddled ''Rage''), I mean, just take one listen to that middle eight. Jon's shrieks are so high they could break glass. It's the kind of moment that makes you love this band.

No comments here yet? I'm amazed such a good album gets such little recognition; surely the album is far from perfect, but the songwriting and performance are really good, the music is expressive and full of energy.

No comments here yet? I'm amazed such a good album gets such little recognition; surely the album is far from perfect, but the songwriting and performance are really good, the music is expressive and full of energy.

Simple but beautiful arrangements, amazing riffs and solos, aggressive and emotional vocals ... As a whole - one of the masterpieces of this great band !!!

No comments here yet? I'm amazed such a good album gets such little recognition; surely the album is far from perfect, but the songwriting and performance are really good, the music is expressive and full of energy.

Simple but beautiful arrangements, amazing riffs and solos, aggressive and emotional vocals ... As a whole - one of the masterpieces of this great band !!!

I have to agree about vocals, most 80's bands in a genre could work emotional on vocals, even if lyrics sucked